Stenting of the gastrointestinal tract.

Self-expandable metal stents are being increasingly used to palliate malignant stenoses of the gastrointestinal tract. These prostheses have made it possible to reestablish luminal continuity in patients with malignant obstruction of esophagus, gastric outlet, small bowel, or colon who are at high risk of surgical intervention. Despite technologic refinements in the stents and their delivery systems, and an increasing number of studies related to self-expandable metal stents, data regarding their long-term efficacy, side effect profile, and true cost efficacy in comparison with other treatment modalities remain incomplete. This article reviews the available technology, placement techniques, indications, and outcomes relating to the use of self-expandable metal stents in esophagus, stomach, small bowel, and colon. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel